West Ham United‘s backline is in for a dramatic makeover under new manager Julen Lopetegui. Reports suggest a significant shake-up is on the horizon, with captain Kurt Zouma potentially being shown the exit door alongside recent arrival Nayef Aguerd.
West Ham’s defensive woes were a major concern last season. The team conceded a record-breaking 74 goals, prompting a desperate need for reinforcements. Lopetegui seems determined to address this issue head-on.
Despite being the current captain, Zouma’s future under Lopetegui is far from certain. His inconsistency and hefty wages (£125,000 per week) could be factors in Lopetegui’s decision-making. With just one year remaining on his contract, West Ham might be open to selling him, freeing up funds for potential replacements.
A report from The Sunday Mirror throws another curveball by confirming the departure of Moroccan defender Nayef Aguerd, who only joined West Ham last year. This move suggests Lopetegui doesn’t see Aguerd fitting his tactical plans.
West Ham has been linked with several potential replacements, including Max Kilman, Vitao, Maxime Esteve, Jacob Greaves, and Jake O’Brien. These names suggest the club is actively scouting for defensive solutions.
Removing the captain and selling a high earner like Zouma is a bold statement by Lopetegui. It signifies his intent to reshape the defence according to his vision and build a team capable of achieving his goals.
While Zouma has been a key player for West Ham, his inconsistency and high wages make his potential departure understandable. However, integrating new defenders requires time and adaptation. West Ham needs to ensure the replacements can effectively address their defensive vulnerabilities.
Lopetegui’s arrival at West Ham signifies a new era, with the defence undergoing a major overhaul. This bold strategy carries both potential rewards and inherent risks. The success of this defensive reshuffle will hinge on identifying and acquiring the right players who can gel quickly and solidify West Ham’s backline.
Compared to this time last season, it is good to see a proactive transfer policy at last.
So some club will pay a fee to take on Zouma’s salary?
I got some water front property too!
Zouma is too immobile for this level now, his knees have finally caught up and were a known issue when he signed. I cant see any realistic possibility of anyone taking him on his wages though.
“Moroccan defender Nayef Aguerd, who only joined West Ham last year.” Errr no. He joined in 2022